A bench in Dawlish is to be dedicated to a well-known local man who died in 2019.

A replacement bench is to be installed at the corner of Penfield Gardens and Old Town Street, as the existing seat there is in such bad condition it can no longer be used.

For many years, that bench had been locally referred to as 'Dave's Bench', after the familiar local character who was often seen sitting there.

He is so fondly remembered by town councillors that they have now agreed to put a plaque inscribed with 'Dave's Bench' on the replacement seat.

The plan to relocate a bench from Lea Mount to the site was agreed at Dawlish Town Council's Civic Amenities Committee on Wednesday, March 17.

The suggestion of the plaque came from Cllr Rosie Dawson, who lives very close to the seat.

She said the bench was very important to local residents as a meeting place and a point of reference, and many people would like to see a plaque there in Dave's honour.

Cllr Dawson added that the plaque would not cost more than £20, and said: "I I would really like to see a bench in that place for local residents and I would like to see a plaque on there in Dave's honour, and I think that would be really well received by the residents in this area of the town."

Cllr Martin Wrigley said he 'wholeheartedly seconded' the proposal.

Cllr Gary Taylor said this was a 'smashing idea' and added: "Yes, David was a fixture in town and it was sad to see him go, and I think he'd be up there thinking, 'yes, it was my bench, it should have my name on it'. I think he'd be very pleased and so will a lot of local people."

On hearing that the plaque would only cost around £20, Cllr Mary Lowther said she was happy to pay from it out of her own pocket.

The cost of relocating the bench from Lea Mount will be around £200 and will be paid for by the town council.